She gave a small nod.
Grateful. Relieved.
But still afraid.
“Thank you,” she whispered.
Then she turned and hurried off toward the Hall of Shadows.
Her braid swung behind her.
Her shoulders remained tense.
Like she expected someone to strike from behind at any moment.
I stood there until she disappeared through the arched doorway.
Only then did I turn.
And then I saw them.
Enzo and his short friend were walking toward the Hall of Shadows, the same hall Bianca was in.
Damn it.
I wouldn’t be there to help her.
To protect her. To stand up for her.
They both glanced back at the same time.
Our eyes met.
Triumph. Malice. Revenge written across their faces in cruel smirks.
I exhaled slowly as they disappeared into the hall, leaving a tight knot in my chest.
My heart ached for Bianca, and I promised myself I would check on her once the day’s lectures were done.
I barely turned before I noticed Ciro, standing a few steps away, watching me with that intensity he had lately—something close to fascination.
I ignored it, forcing myself to believe it meant nothing, and started walking toward him, each step heavy with thought.
He adjusted his stance.
And met me halfway across the gravel.
Composed.
But I didn’t care about his composure right now.
I needed answers—desperately.
“Please... just tell me,” I said, the words ripping out before I could stop them. “How on earth is Renzo?”
A beat.
“Please tell me he’s fine.”
